OVERVIEW

The city of dreams that nonchalantly endorses living on the edge has become the muse of authors across the world. A popular reason for this: Mumbai allows you to just be or even become anyone you want to be. Truly, the most cosmopolitan city in India, the city is also host to the world’s largest film industry, popularly known as ‘Bollywood’. Travelers are drawn to the city for various reasons. Some visit the city to experience the sights, some want to capture its stunning monuments in their cameras, while most are charmed by this city’s attitude and inimitable spirit. But apart from the usual attractions, many just want to get a first-hand on experiencing life on the fast lane and to witness waves of humanity get on with their life.

Today, Mumbai is like any world city with every element that defines a metro: malls, markets, rush-hour madness and the method in madness that ensures people find calm in chaos.

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Easily the city's most iconic structure, the Gateway of India is symbolic of Mumbai. Gracing the waterfront of South Mumbai's Apollo Bunder area, this compelling structure was built during the British Raj to welcome the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary when they visited India in 1911. Today it's one of Mumbai's most popular tourist spots, thronged by click-happy tourists and locals who want to take in unparalleled views of the Arabain Sea.

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Mumbai is often called the city of dreams. A city where everything is possible and you can be whoever you want to be. Apart from being the country's commercial and entertainment capital, Mumbai can also be safely called India's most cosmopolitan city

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Mumbai (or Bombay as it was formerly called) was a collection of seven islands which connected over a span of five centuries through land reclamation projects.

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Mumbai is also a city that never stops and the most significant driving force that runs the city's economy has to be the Mumbai local train that transports around four million people from their suburban homes to their workplace in Southern and Central Mumbai each day.

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Mumbai is also the city that is known for being home to the world's largest film industry- Bollywood. Here, we see a mural of Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan on a wall in Bandra, a hip suburb of Mumbai

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If you're a Bollywood junkie, you should surely drop by at Mumbai's infamous Chor Bazaar or thieves market near Mumbai Central which retails everything from mobile phones to motorbike parts. It is also known to be a treasure trove of Bollywood memorabilia like old movie posters, LPs and rare books and magazines

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This library has been a popular shooting location in Bollywood films where it has often been portrayed as the exterior of a High Court. Apart from the majestic Roman columns that define this learned society of Asian studies, this historic construction finds its roots over two centuries back. Located close to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, this is a popular sight for most tourists arriving to the city.

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One of the reasons why Mumbai is called the financial capital of India is because it is home to the country's stock exchange, called the BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange). Located in South Mumbai's Dalal Street, it is the 11th largest stock market in the world by market capitalisation. While it has a glorious present, it has humble roots and it traces its roots to 1855, when four Gujarati and one Parsi stockbroker would gather under banyan trees facing the city's Town Hall. The location of these meetings was never fixed but as the number of brokers grew, they formed an organisation called 'The Native Share & Stock Brokers Association' and moved to Dalal Street. In 1958, BSE become the first stock exchange to be recognized by the Indian Government and in 1980 it moved to Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers in Dalal Street where it presently stands

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One of Mumbai's recent achievements would be the cable-stayed bridge linking Bandra to Worli. It is a part of the larger Western Freeway project which intends to link the suburbs to South Mumbai's largest business district, Nariman Point. Being a city that thrives on local trains for daily commute, this was an attempt to encourage people to opt for the road. During peak hours, the sea link is said to reduce travel time between Bandra and Worli from 60-90 minutes to 20-30 minutes. Commuters can opt for single way or return toll options (if the return falls on the same day).

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The Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located in the Mumbai suburb of Borivali offers Mumbaikars a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. This forest reserve, apart from being a few degrees cooler than the rest of the city, is also less polluted. It is recommended to visit this place only during the day and it would be convenient to have a car to explore the forest and the many hidden spots that reveal stunning sights. This place comes alive during the monsoons, as the forest has several secret waterfalls which are seasonal and will surely excite the photographer in you. Find a stream that rocks your boat and plonk yourself on a rock next to it

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This southern-most station on the Western line peaks in congestion during transit hours for the working class. As the closest station from corporate zones like Nariman Point, Fort and Colaba, it becomes the only option for people living on the Western line to commute through. While the station has 5 platforms, the best vantage point to take in the waves of humanity would be near the entrance to the station, facing all the train time indicators. While you're at it, it would be recommended to try the filter coffee or munch on some freshly baked popcorn available here. Only advice: watch your back or you will be pushed around like you're riding against the tide

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South Mumbai's Machchimar Nagar is home to several fishermen who belong to the Koli community. Interestingly, they are the original inhabitants of Mumbai and were responsible for naming most of the landmark places in the city. Just that the names they gave were distorted over time. Colaba was first called Kolbhat, Apollo Bunder was initially named Palva Bunder and perhaps their most crucial contribution would be naming Mumbai after the Mumbadevi temple in Dongri. Head to Cuffe Parade early in the morning and you can catch a glimpse of Koli fishermen returning with their daily catch

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Apart from the Arabian Sea, Mumbai has few water bodies that could serve as a sight of visual delight. Powai Lake, an artificial lake located in the suburb of Powai is surely one. At a time, this lake was one of sources of water for the city but the quality of water has degraded extensively over the years and it has now been declared unfit to drink. Despite this, the lake continues to be a popular tourist spot. A good vantage point to enjoy this lake would be from the coffee shop of the Renaissance Hotel which overlooks the Powai Lake

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If you're one for the outdoors, the lush greens of this park would be ideal to stretch out with that book you've been meaning to complete. With Mumbai's version of the Big Ben, Rajabai Clock Tower, the Oval Maidan is usually isolated and it's easy to lose track of time when you're kicking back here. This place is also ideal to check out amateur cricket matches or sights of budding cricketers practicing if you fancy the sport. The Oval Maidan is located near the Churchgate station on the Western Railway line

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Mumbai's infamous Chor Bazaar or thieves market near Mumbai Central retails everything from mobile phones to motorbike parts. It is one the largest flea markets in India and a major tourist attraction for those who want to explore places beyond the obvious. The word 'chor' means 'thief' in Hindi and Marathi and hence the name. Interestingly, the name of the market was originally called 'Shor Bazaar' meaning 'noisy market' and the current name is said to have come from a British mispronunciation. The market finds mentions in many popular novels. One of them being Rohinton Mistry's 'Such a Long Journey', where he refers to the place as, "not a nice place"

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South Mumbai's most famous wholesale market, Crawford Market went into business in 1869. Today, the market has gone beyond vegetables and fruits and one can expect anything from spices, condiments to imported food items. Many big restaurants in Mumbai are said to source their ingredients from here, primarily for their wholesale rates and international quality of products. Drop by to check out the varieties of French cheese in stock or pick up some Belgian cooking chocolate

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The festival of Dussehra is celebrated with a lot of fanfare in central Mumbai's Shivaji Park which draws a huge crowd to watch the effigy of Ravana being burnt

There’s no dearth of hotels in Mumbai. India’s financial capital, the city of Mumbai has beds to suit every budget. From the Taj Palace right next to the iconic Gateway of India to Grand Hyatt in the suburbs to numerous affordable options spread across the city’s length and breadth, Mumbai caters to all kinds of lodging needs. While most of the luxurious hotels—best suited for business travellers—are situated within close proximity to the airport, the city is also home to stylish boutique hotels for those looking for an indulgent stay without spending an exorbitant amount of money. Listed here are some of the best options for staying in Mumbai.

Mumbai is a city which will always have something waiting to be explored for a traveller. Right from the stunning sea beaches to the street food to chic restaurants to the heritage sites, it is a city which is loved by travellers not only from different parts of the country but most other parts of the world as well. In order to host these travellers, the city of Mumbai, which is also the commercial capital of India and hosts a lot of business travellers as well, are the amazing resorts in Mumbai.

If you’ve got a ferocious appetite, the restaurants in Mumbai will feed you silly and leave you lusting for more. Although the city is bursting at the seams with high-end eateries serving world-class cuisine from around the globe, there are plenty of affordable spots where you can enjoy delicious local fare without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you want to go local, or decode to eat your way through all the innovative cuisine being churned out at five-star kitchens; Mumbai’s culinary offerings are amongst the best in the country, and will definitely satiate your appetite.

There are plenty of places to visit in Mumbai that offer a myriad of charming experiences to all kinds of travellers. Take in the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea as you spend hours at the Queen’s necklace, explore the iconic sites such as Gateway of India, Haji Ali Dargah, and the gigantic Victoria Terminus (now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), or spend a day at the Juhu Beach—Mumbai has it all. The hub of Bollywood, Mumbai has been attracting travellers from near and far for a long time now. The destination remains crowded with travellers year round owing to its pristine beaches, ancient architectures and famous religious centres, and also to get a glimpse of their favourite stars.

From tourist landmarks such as the Gateway of India and Taj Mahal Hotel to local hotspots like Haji
Ali and Mount Mary Church—the maximum city is dotted with heritage
sights that you should definitely add to your list of places to visit in
Mumbai. Take a trip down Mumbai’s past, and discover the stories behind
some of its most iconic sights.

Whether you’re accompanied by friends or travelling alone, the list of things to do in Mumbai is endless. Go sample its relishing street food, take a tour of the city’s historical sites, stroll on the city’s beaches or gaze at the sunset at Marine Drive—the city of dreams offers many charming experiences. And when you’ve ticked all the important landmarks off your itinerary, explore the green patches of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (and go cycle on the meandering pathways), watch a play at Prithvi Theatre or take a tour of the stunning museums. Here are all the things you must do while you're there.

If you like to combine high-end retail therapy with bargain hunting, you’ll really enjoy shopping in Mumbai. The city offers a host of contrasting retail experiences—from hustling your way down the street-side market at Colaba and hunting for the perfect pair of shoes at Pedder Road, to trawling for fashion rejects through Bandra’s outdoor stalls and spending the bug bucks at the city’s designer boutiques—to cater to your every need.

From street markets offering great bargains to glitzy malls stocked with designer wear, shopping in Mumbai has something for every budget and interest. Soak in the smells and sights of the city at the colourful food-centric Crawford Market, hunt for rare antiques at the Chor Bazaar, or simply take a stroll along the countless fashion stalls lining Linking Road in Bandra. Mumbai also has several upscale boutiques and stores: check out Philips Antiques for old treasures, Le Mill, Good Earth and Bungalow 8 for home furnishings, Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri for jewellery and Forest Essentials for traditional Indian beauty products.

The nightlife in Mumbai can give some of the world's biggest party capitals a good run for their money. From low-cost drinking holes and dimly-lit lounges, to exclusive dance clubs and elegant bars—the city has it all . Regardless of your budget, your taste in music, or your dress code, Mumbai is packed with countless options to keep you on your toes. So the next time you're deciding on where to go in the afterhours, just head out and choose from a plethora of superb options. The city never sleeps, and will ensure that you don't either.

From the stunning landscapes of Bhandardhara and Goa’s pristine beaches, to Matheran’s lush slopes veiled in fog, there are numerous weekend getaways from Mumbai for your respite. From lazying around on a hilltop villa to hiking in the Western Ghats, these locales pack in all activities that make for a great weekend escape. Take a break from the chaotic pace of the city life, fill up your car’s tank and head to these destinations for an ideal getaway.

Oppressively hot summers make you lust for a walk amidst the
mountains or a laze on the beach and these long weekend getaways from Mumbai are
the perfect way to pack up your bags and do just that. When the city makes you
crazy, respite is a quick ride in any direction. Swim in Goa’s beautiful
beaches, relish the cool breeze and stunning views of Mahabaleshwar or sample
spicy Malvani seafood in Tarkarli—here are the best getaways around Mumbai for
those long weekends.